Cultural Fusion: What Ancient African Knowledge Can Teach Us About Innovation in Plasma Physics

Fusion science is often described as "the power of the stars," but what if some of its guiding principles have been with us for millennia—hidden in plain sight within African traditions that were once dismissed as "witchcraft"?
This talk bridges the gap between cultural history and plasma physics, exploring how practices like controlled fire (as seen in fire-walking rituals), thermal management in ancient architecture (mud homes with natural insulation), and even symbolic understandings of energy cycles mirror modern scientific concepts.
By weaving personal narratives—including my own journey through systemic barriers as an engineer and a DEIA professional—with the overlooked genius of African civilizations, I highlight how diversity of thought, culture, and history can unlock innovation.
Suppressing cultural heritage has not only stifled human potential but also slowed our collective scientific progress. If we had built on these foundations instead of erasing them, our breakthroughs—perhaps even in fusion—might have arrived sooner.
I offer insights into how "cultural add" rather than "cultural fit" can unlock the untapped energy within organizations and research communities.
This session calls for cultural humility, recognizing that inclusion and interdisciplinary curiosity are as critical to innovation as technical expertise.